The case about Hymenaeus is instructive because Paul treated other cases differently. Paul supplied corrective information to the Thessalonian Christians about the future resurrection (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). He urged them not be alarmed by reports that Christ’s return had already taken place (2 Thessalonians 2:2). 1 Corinthians 15:12 dealt with something worse. Paul asked, “How can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?” Yet there was no hint of action against those who held such views. Instead, Paul helped them to see how their views contradicted the Gospel. He also supplied more teaching about the future resurrection.
Apparently, Hymenaeus knew better, but persisted in false and damaging teaching, which could not be tolerated. But those with mistaken views in Thessalonica and Corinth were immature and ignorant. They needed correction, not discipline, proving that the faith had plenty of room for grace and for growth.
Many prefer “one faith” that is brief and simple.
This answers an objection to the “one faith” as revealed truth. Many prefer “one faith” that is brief and simple, such as …
sharing a similar feeling of faith.
- a basic confession of faith in Christ.
- the Gospel as initially presented to unbelievers.
- a core statement such as 1 Corinthian 15:1-4.
- A part of the apostolic message such as salvation by grace through faith.
This approach seems logical: For “one faith” to unite us, it must be agreeable. That is, as many believers as possible should be able to agree with it. Since Christendom is so divided over doctrines—so they reason—the “one faith” should have as few doctrinal details as possible.
That reasoning is very human. It is driven in part by our compassion. We want to be inclusive and tolerant, to fellowship with as many as possible who use the name of Christ. And it is normal to want to feel accepted by others. Many of us are people pleasers by nature. Our logic is also driven by our human history, our experiences and our categories—the mental boxes in which we think. When we think in such human ways, would the Lord rebuke us, “You are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man”?